Scenic beaches, mouthwatering cuisine and unique shopping. If these are the attributes you strive for in a vacation then look no further than Del Mar. A small, seaside getaway located just 20 minutes from San Diego, it boasts amazing weather and a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere. The charming area can be traced back to 1882 when a New Yorker named Theodore Loop came to build a railroad. Fast forward to 1885 and a partnership with a successful rancher and you have the foundations of Del Mar. Although Taylor eventually moved to Texas failing to rebuild a hotel which had burned to the ground, it had no major effect over time and today Del Mar is a thriving community, a gem nestled along the coast if you will. Come here to experience a landscape still as beautiful as it was when its founders stumbled across it. The addition of a world famous racetrack, wonderful shops and lovely holiday accommodation only work to enhance Del Mar and your stay!
Where to stay
Get a 19th century feeling when vacationing in Del Mar by booking a rental with traditional features and the charm of a period holiday home. Such charisma is also apparent in the beautiful villas, apartment and cottages scattered throughout the area. All rental choices can be found with a self-catering option perfect for large groups or families wishing to rustle up a tasty lunch to eat to the park or beach. Bring such wonderful locations to your doorstep by choosing a hillside cottage or beachfront holiday home or apartment.
Fun Facts
- Del Mar College is ranked among the nation's top 50 higher education institutions granting associate degrees to Hispanic students!
- The Del Mar Theatre was built in 1936 and was intended to be a vaudeville theatre!
- Del Mar is the smallest municipality in the booming San Diego region!
- During World War II, racing at Del Mar Race Track came to a halt so that the facilities could be instead used as a bomber tail assembly plant!
- Del Mar is one of the few places in Southern California which has a dog beach!
Things to see and do in Del Mar
There are plenty of must-see sights and local hotspots in Del Mar. The problem is where to start. As the area is famous for its unique shopping and wonderful restaurants then why not begin at Del Mar Plaza? Situated in a prime location next to the Pacific Coast, it is home to 50 upscale restaurants and shops. Those in the market for western-style clothing or layers of lace and ruffles are certainly in the right place, and a mixture of trying on all these wonderful items and the refreshing sea air is sure to rustle up a hunger inside you! Anybody wanting to continue their shopping spree can head to The Village of Del Mar.Those looking for something a bit more relaxed have many options at their fingertips. Naturally, there are many beautiful beaches to suit any preference including the Dog Beach, north Del Mar City Beach and south Del Mar City Beach whose cliff-lined perimeters are perfect for long walks or jogs. Visitors can drive along the coastline on Historic Highway 101 to admire the view, and the next day look at it from a different angle onboard a 3,000 feet high hot air balloon ride. If that is not enough then admire the beauty of Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve or play a round at The Grand Golf Club.
Visitors may choose to book their vacation around one of the lively and fun-filled festivals put on in Del Mar annually. The internationally known Del Mar Thoroughbred Club run a yearly event from late July through early September at their seaside racetrack. Located next to the track are the Del Mar Fairgrounds where ongoing attractions are organised throughout the year, the highlight of which is the San Diego County Fair which features carnival rides, animals, and floral exhibits. Culinary delights are at the forefront of the Del Mar Taste & Art Stroll which is held each October.